Lafser & Associates has the capabilities to provide asbestos surveys for commercial and residential properties,
schools and other institutions, and redevelopment projects.
Use of asbestos in building materials was banned during the 1970’s. Prior to this time, the use of asbestos was
very common across a range of building products. Examples of frequently encountered suspect asbestos-
containing building materials include Thermal System Insulation (TSI) such as pipe, duct and boiler insulation;
roofing materials; surface coatings such as decorative plaster and textured paints; window caulk and glazing;
and ceiling and floor tiles.
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) regulates demolition and renovation activities involving asbestos removal and disposal for institutional, commercial, public, industrial, and residential structures. Prior
to any structure undergoing a demolition or renovation, it must be inspected for asbestos by a Missouri-certified asbestos inspector.
Asbestos Inspections:
- Provide specific information on location and quantities of asbestos-containing building materials to be
removed prior to remodeling, redevelopment or building demolition.
- Are a key component for assessment of environmental contamination at MDNR Brownfield/Voluntary
Cleanup Program sites.
- During an asbestos inspection, samples of all suspect building materials are collected and tested.
Materials containing greater than one percent asbestos are considered to be asbestos-containing
materials.
Lafser & Associates Personnel:
- Are EPA Trained and fully-qualified in Asbestos survey and sampling techniques in accordance
with the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) guidelines.
- Maintain certified inspector licensures with the State of Missouri Department of Natural Resources
and Illinois EPA.
- Are accredited under the EPA’s Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA).
- Utilize independent EPA and NIOSH approved methods for air and bulk asbestos testing.
- Utilize NVLAP accredited laboratories for Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) test methodology
to obtain results for suspect asbestos containing materials.
- Utilize and maintain strong working relationships with reputable abatement companies who maintain
certification as asbestos contractors under the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Air Pollution
Control Program.
